Last year, old-fashioned CRT TV sets accounted for 46 percent of all shipments to North American retailers, partly because they’re so affordable compared to pricey flat screen sets. The Consumer Electronics Associates predicts that CRT sets will no longer be sold in the U.S. in two years time, but perhaps that’s a little optimistic. Unless, of course, TV manufacturers want to slash prices on flat screens. Two years ago, I bought a 32″ Sony CRT HDTV set for $799. Today, the least expensive 32″ Sony HDTV flat screens still cost over $1,000. And I bet my CRT picture beats the LCD in quality.
Adds Zack in comments: “I prefer my HD CRT over any LCD on the market. Unfortunately it’s VERY heavy. Recently, I hired movers because I didn’t want to take it down three sets of stairs again. I’m just holding out as long as possible until they can improve the flats.”
Adds FishPatrol: “I won’t argue that some analog HDTV sets can outperform most or all mid-level LCD TVs, most likely including mine. For me, the logic included being able to move it myself, using less electricity, and connecting to a computer via DVI to watch movies, play games, etc. And with i.Link (Firewire) I can record shows directly off the set, onto the computer for later watching or archiving.”